See the DrugPatentWatch profile for lipitor

The Cost of Lipitor: A Comprehensive Guide

What is Lipitor?

Lipitor, also known as atorvastatin, is a prescription medication used to treat high cholesterol and other cardiovascular conditions. It belongs to a class of medications called statins, which help lower cholesterol levels by inhibiting the production of cholesterol in the liver.

What is the Cost of Lipitor?

The cost of Lipitor can vary depending on several factors, including the dosage, quantity, and location. As a branded medication, Lipitor is typically more expensive than generic alternatives. According to data from DrugPatentWatch.com, the average wholesale price (AWP) of Lipitor in the United States is around $130 per 30-day supply.

How Does the Cost of Lipitor Compare to Generic Alternatives?

Generic versions of atorvastatin, such as atorvastatin calcium, are available at a significantly lower cost. According to GoodRx, a popular online pharmacy comparison tool, the average cost of a 30-day supply of atorvastatin calcium is around $20-$30.

Why is Lipitor More Expensive than Generic Alternatives?

There are several reasons why Lipitor is more expensive than generic alternatives:

* Patent protection: Lipitor was patented by Pfizer, the manufacturer, until 2011. This meant that Pfizer had exclusive rights to produce and sell the medication, which allowed them to set a higher price.
* Research and development: Pfizer invested heavily in the research and development of Lipitor, which contributed to its higher cost.
* Marketing and advertising: Pfizer spent significant amounts on marketing and advertising Lipitor, which added to its cost.

How Can You Save Money on Lipitor?

If you're prescribed Lipitor, there are several ways to save money:

* Ask your doctor about generic alternatives: Your doctor may be able to prescribe a generic version of atorvastatin, such as atorvastatin calcium.
* Use online pharmacy comparison tools: Websites like GoodRx and RxSaver allow you to compare prices for Lipitor and other medications at different pharmacies.
* Consider cash-paying: If you're not using insurance, you may be able to negotiate a lower price with your pharmacy.
* Look for patient assistance programs: Pfizer offers a patient assistance program for Lipitor, which can help eligible patients receive the medication at a reduced cost.

Key Takeaways

* The cost of Lipitor can vary depending on the dosage, quantity, and location.
* Generic alternatives to Lipitor, such as atorvastatin calcium, are available at a significantly lower cost.
* There are several ways to save money on Lipitor, including asking your doctor about generic alternatives, using online pharmacy comparison tools, and considering cash-paying.

FAQs

1. What is the average wholesale price of Lipitor in the United States?
Answer: According to DrugPatentWatch.com, the average wholesale price of Lipitor in the United States is around $130 per 30-day supply.
2. How does the cost of Lipitor compare to generic alternatives?
Answer: Generic versions of atorvastatin, such as atorvastatin calcium, are available at a significantly lower cost, with an average cost of around $20-$30 per 30-day supply.
3. Why is Lipitor more expensive than generic alternatives?
Answer: Lipitor is more expensive than generic alternatives due to patent protection, research and development, and marketing and advertising costs.
4. How can I save money on Lipitor?
Answer: You can save money on Lipitor by asking your doctor about generic alternatives, using online pharmacy comparison tools, considering cash-paying, and looking for patient assistance programs.
5. Is Lipitor still available as a branded medication?
Answer: Yes, Lipitor is still available as a branded medication, although it is no longer under patent protection. However, generic alternatives are widely available and often less expensive.

Sources

1. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Atorvastatin (Lipitor) Patent Expiration. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent-expiration-date/atorvastatin-lipitor>
2. GoodRx. (n.d.). Atorvastatin Calcium Prices. Retrieved from <https://www.goodrx.com/atorvastatin-calcium>
3. Pfizer. (n.d.). Lipitor Patient Assistance Program. Retrieved from <https://www.pfizer.com/healthcare-professionals/patient-assistance-program/lipitor-patient-assistance-program>